6. A communication transmitted from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Larry Ward and appointment of Charles Marquardt as Election Commissioners.
Placed on File

June 13, 2016
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In accordance with Chapter 239 of the Acts of 1921 as amended, I am hereby transmitting notification of the reappointment of Larry Ward as an Election Commissioner for a term to expire Mar 31, 2020 and the appointment of Charles Marquardt as an Election Commissioner for a term to expire Mar 31, 2017. Mr. Marquardt is filling an unexpired term currently on the Commission.

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

9. A communication transmitted from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a recommendation that the City Council approve an Order to take by eminent domain a parcel of land comprising approximately 5,000 square feet of land located at 859 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge which is presently owned by the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and that the City Council approve an Order appropriating One Million Three Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Five ($1,363,875) Dollars to the General Fund Law Department Travel & Training (Judgment & Damages) Account from Free Cash.
Appropriation Order Adopted 9-0; Order of Taking Adopted 9-0

June 13, 2016
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am pleased to be writing to recommend that the City Council approve an Order to take by eminent domain a parcel of land comprising approximately 5,000 square feet of land located at 859 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge which is presently owned by the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. Pursuant to Section 30 of Chapter 43, Section 14 of Chapter 40, and Chapter 79 of the General Laws, all as amended, it is provided that the Cambridge City Council may take in fee in the name of the City for any municipal purpose any land within the limits of the City not already appropriated for public use. I recommend that the City Council take the above referenced parcel of land for municipal purposes, including but not limited to the creation of affordable housing and municipal office purposes, and for all uses and purposed accessory thereto.

I also recommend that the City Council approve an Order appropriating One Million Three Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Five ($1,363,875) Dollars to the General Fund Law Department Travel & Training (Judgment & Damages) Account from Free Cash, as damages deemed sufficient by the Chief Assessor to cover the estimated pro tanto payment toward the expenses of acquisition as required by the above referenced Sections of Chapters 40 and 43 of the General Laws.

Under the law, the property owner has the right to challenge the amount of the pro tanto payment in a legal proceeding and could seek to persuade a court that it is entitled to the actual fair market value of the property as well as certain other statutory damages such as relocation costs. I will initiate a settlement of any such claim with the property owner if the City Council votes to approve these two orders and authorizes the taking of this property by eminent domain. In the event that I successfully reach a proposed settlement with the property owner to resolve such damages claim, I anticipate returning to the City Council in the near future with a request for a further appropriation which would authorize me to settle the claim and would constitute a final agreed damages award to the Chamber of Commerce to pay for the taking of this property.

I look forward to discussing this matter with you and answering any questions that you may have.

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

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Agenda Item #9     June 13, 2016

WHEREAS: By Section 30 of Chapter 43, Section 14 of Chapter 40, and Chapter 79 of the General Laws, all as amended, it is provided that the Cambridge City Council may take in fee in the name of the City for any municipal purpose any land within the limits of the City not already appropriated for public use; and

WHEREAS: The City Manager of Cambridge and City Council, in order to provide for municipal purposes, including but not limited inter alia, to a place for the creation of affordable housing and municipal office purposes and for all purposes and uses accessory thereto, have approved and authorized that the City should under the provisions of the aforesaid Chapter of the General Laws take and hold for municipal purposes including but not limited to the creation of affordable housing and municipal office purposes and for all purposes and uses accessory thereto the parcel of land located at 859 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Massachusetts as hereinafter bounded and described and any buildings and trees thereon; and

WHEREAS: An appropriation duly made by the City Council on June 13, 2016, is sufficient to cover the estimated pro tanto expenses of acquisition as required by the aforesaid Sections of Chapters 40 and 43; now therefore be it

ORDERED: By virtue of and in pursuance of the authority conferred by said Chapters of the General Laws and by every other power and authority it thereto enabling, the City of Cambridge by its City Council does hereby take the land located at 859 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Massachusetts and hereinafter described, and all privileges and appurtenances thereto belonging as well as all trees and all structures thereon, excepting any easement of record shown on the plan attached hereto and to be recorded herewith, for municipal purposes including but not limited to the creation of affordable housing and municipal office purposes and for all purposes and uses accessory thereto. Intending to take and hereby taking in fee simple all land, excepting any easement of record shown on the plan recorded herewith, included within such description by whomsoever the same may be owned, vis:

A certain Parcel of Land located at 859 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Massachusetts, and situated on the northeasterly corner of Massachusetts Avenue (formerly called Main Street and Clinton Street) in the City of Cambridge, County of Middlesex, Commonwealth of Massachusetts. More particularly described as follows:

SOUTHEASTERLY by said Clinton Street 102 feet:

NORTHEASTERLY by land now or formerly of Burlinghame and others by a line extending at right angles with said Clinton Street 50-1/2 feet:

NORTHWESTERLY by other land now or late of said Burlinghame and others by a line parallel with said Clinton Street and extending to said Massachusetts Avenue 97-95/100 feet and

SOUTHWESTERLY by said Massachusetts Avenue 50-2/3 feet.

Containing about five thousand square feet more or less.

The above described Parcel of Land contains an area of about five thousand square feet, more or less, and is more particularly shown on a plan entitled “Mortgage Inspection Plan” dated June 6, 2016, prepared by: John J. Russell, Land Surveyor and attached hereto and to be recorded herewith (“Plan”).

For title to said Parcel of Land see Middlesex South Registry of Deeds Book 13030, Page 630.

The damages awarded with respect to said Parcel of Land are One Million Three Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Five ($1,363,875) Dollars and the supposed owner is The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Inc.; now therefore be it

ORDERED: The taking of fee simple title in the Parcel of Land, excepting any easement of record shown on the Plan attached hereto and to be recorded herewith, along with all buildings and trees thereon herein described is hereby authorized in accordance with General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 14, Chapter 43, Section 30 and Chapter 79, all as amended for municipal purposes including but not limited to the creation of affordable housing and municipal office purposes and for all purposes and uses accessory thereto.

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     June 13, 2016
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The current Massachusetts-wide minimum wage of $10 per hour is equal to only two-thirds of the current Cambridge Living Wage of $15.04 per hour, and this Living Wage currently covers only City employees and those employees working indirectly for the City via contract; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has, on multiple occasions, expressed a great concern about low wages in Cambridge and their detrimental impact on the city’s residents, which have placed a tremendous strain on the local affordable housing market, the city’s food pantries and shelter system, and various other social services that attempt to mitigate the effects of the rising costs of living; and
WHEREAS: Raising the minimum wage in Cambridge, if done properly, could have a positive ripple effect throughout the community, and it may be necessary for the City Council to put forth a successful Home Rule Petition before the State Legislature in order to implement this; and
WHEREAS: The City Council wishes to obtain the ability to raise the minimum wage in Cambridge without doing so in such a way that could unintentionally impede the efforts of other Massachusetts communities who are engaged in similar efforts; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Mayor convene a Task Force charged with establishing recommendations for the City Council on what the ideal minimum wage in Cambridge should be, and how to best implement this increase without creating unintended consequences in Cambridge or elsewhere; and be it further
ORDERED: That Business, Labor, and Community Interests should be equally represented on this Task Force, that the Task Force should work to solicit the opinions of other affected stakeholders, and that this Task Force should hold its first meeting within three months of the adoption of this resolution, and report back to the City Council within six months of that meeting.

O-2     June 13, 2016
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: Italian-American Culture is an important part of the fabric of the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Italian-Americans have made many contributions to Cambridge civic life and our neighborhoods and their successes should be celebrated; and
WHEREAS: Like many immigrant groups, Italians faced significant struggles and prejudices as they established themselves in America and as they strove to make a better life for their families; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record reaffirming the month of October as Italian Heritage Month in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record declaring October 1st as Italian Heritage Day to commemorate the kick off of Italian Heritage Month.

O-4     June 13, 2016
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR DEVEREUX
WHEREAS: The right to vote is of fundamental importance to the formation and continuation of American government, and is the cornerstone of our democracy; and
WHEREAS: Voter turnout in previous elections is low, with 36.6% of eligible voters nationwide casting ballots in the 2014 General Election, and roughly 18% of Cambridge residents casting a vote in the 2015 municipal election; and
WHEREAS: Increasing voter turnout will ensure a government that better represents the voters; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts General Court pursuant to Chapter 111, (Section 12) of the Acts of 2014, has provided for 11 days of early voting, beginning with the 2016 election; and
WHEREAS: Within that eleven day period municipalities are only required to keep open one polling location by law, but can make the choice to open additional locations; and
WHEREAS: Common Cause Massachusetts, the state chapter of a national citizen advocacy group, recommend opening at least 1 polling place per 35,000 voters in their report “Early Voting: What Other States Can Teach Massachusetts”; and
WHEREAS: The United States Presidential Commission on Election Administration has stated, “[early voting] must be administered in an equitable manner so all voters can have equal opportunity to vote.”; and
WHEREAS: Evenings and weekends will be the most convenient time for a large number of Cantabrigians — such as low-income workers, full-time employees, and parents with young children — to vote; and
WHEREAS: The Common Cause report has estimated the additional cost of operating early voting locations at only “$362.84 per location per full day”; now therefore be it
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the Election Commission in order to operate at least 5 early polling locations, for the entire day, for the entirety of the 11 day early voting period; and that the City Manager and Elections Commission confer further as to the feasibility of operating a greater number of early polling locations, and issue a report detailing their findings; and be it further
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the appropriate departments to develop and launch an awareness campaign that will educate Cambridge residents about early voting opportunities and procedures; and be it further
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the Election Commission to operate the polling locations as non-precinct based, “Vote Centers,” thereby allowing anyone desiring to vote early to do so at the center most convenient for them; and be it further
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the Election Commission to make every attempt to accomplish this goal in time for the 2016 general election.

O-5     June 13, 2016
COUNCILLOR DEVEREUX
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is a leader in sustainability and is working towards an ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050; and
WHEREAS: 20% of the city’s emissions come from transportation; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge must actively pursue innovative methods to reduce vehicular emissions in order to reach our sustainability goals; and
WHEREAS: Several cities in the United States and Canada have taken steps to better inform consumers when filling their cars with gasoline about the environmental consequences of burning fuel; and
WHEREAS: North Vancouver, Berkeley, and San Francisco have recently implemented ordinances requiring labels on the handles of gasoline pumps informing consumers about the impact that burning fuel has on the environment; and
WHEREAS: Many gasoline nozzles come equipped with a “nozzle talker” that could easily hold a small label; and
WHEREAS: Requiring these labels at the gas pump will provide consumers with information about the impact of fossil fuel consumption, which may encourage them to use alternative forms of transportation when appropriate; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of requiring gas pump labels with information about the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels at all gas stations in the City; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this issue in a timely manner.

O-6     June 13, 2016
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: In an effort to improve civic engagement and voter turnout rates during municipal elections, some cities across the country have implemented a voter reward or voucher program; and
WHEREAS: As voting is one of the most important opportunities that citizens have to engage and influence their community, the residents of Cambridge should be encouraged to partake in the election process; and
WHEREAS: Potential wage loss causes many people who are eligible to vote to not participate in voting during elections, and a voter reward system could act as a supplement for this wage loss; and
WHEREAS: A study by Fordham University in 2014 found that a cash prize or voucher worth at least $25 encourages civic engagement by incentivizing voting to increase the voter turnout rate from 14.9% to 19.2%; and
WHEREAS: In Los Angeles, California, a voter reward system randomly granted one voter with a cash prize of $25,000 and dramatically increased the voter turnout rate from 46% to 80%; and
WHEREAS: In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a lottery system with one cash prize of $10,000 per election has been created to promote voter turnout; and
WHEREAS: An alternative voter reward system where Cambridge voters received a voucher or gift card to spend only at local businesses could increase voter turnout rates, as well as promote and benefit sales of local businesses in Cambridge; and
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the appropriate departments to explore voter reward options for municipal elections that are most appealing for citizens and businesses alike; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is request to report back to the City Council with options and a possible timeline for implementation on this matter.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, held a public hearing on Wed, May 25, 2016 beginning at 3:02pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to amend the Zoning Map in the Riverside neighborhood from the existing Residence C-1 to Residence C within the area bounded by Franklin and River Streets and Putnam Avenue. The most significant changes would be that the allowed Floor Area Ratio would decrease from 0.75 to 0.60, the required lot area per dwelling unit would increase from 1,500 to 1,800 square feet, and the open space requirement would increase from 30% to 36% of a lot.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Carlone, Co-Chair of the Committee; Councillor Devereux; Vice Mayor McGovern; Jeff Roberts, Zoning and Land Use Planner, Community Development Department (CDD); Swaathi Joseph, Associate Planner, CDD; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Elaine DeRosa, CEOC, 4 Pleasant Place; Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street; David Cohan, 37 Kinnaird Street; Chris Marstall, 1 Jay Street Place; Leonard Lucas 36 Kinnaird Street; Harvey Bauman, 19 Bay Street; Neil Dugas, 11 Jay Street; Aleta Cane, 32 Kinnaird Street; Gary Mello, 324 Franklin Street; Dawn Baxter, 76 Kinnaird Street; Anwar Abdulla, 231Western Avenue; Maggie Compher, 31 Kinnaird Street; Jessie M. Bolden, 153 Western Avenue; John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Lauren Curry, 3 Concord Avenue; and Joyce Singer, 524 Franklin Street.

Councillor Carlone convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that the meeting is being audio and video recorded. He outlined the format: petitioners, City staff, public comments and then committee members. He stated that at the conclusion of the hearing the committee will make a recommendation based on the merits of the proposal.

Maggie Compher, 31 Kinnaird Street, and David Cohan, the petitioners, had a PowerPoint presentation (ATTACHMENT A). Ms. Compher stated that for over 7 years she has noticed a trend of developers coming into Riverside and developing many lots. The residents are concerned because green permeable open space is being lost. She stated that residents wanted to find a way to save their neighborhood and not lose its character, integrity and scale. She stated that there were 160 signatures on the petition. The petitioners do not want to prevent homeowners from adding onto their homes. She stated that the intent is to right the wrong where developers are coming into Riverside buying lots, splitting them into two lots, and then selling the two lots separately to make a sizeable profit. She gave examples, including one on Jay Street.

In one example David Cohan added that the existing side-yard green space was due to an easement purchased by an abutter for $275,000 to be a garden and open space. This was not the developer’s original plan. The developer ran out of money and the owner of 36 Jay Street made an offer to create the open space in perpetuity. Ms. Compher stated that the developer’s intent was to build another condo, but that the developer ran out of money. The developer is Guy Asaph and the resident worked with the developer to create the green space.

Ms. Compher spoke about 6 condos on a lot that used to be a single family home and there is now extensive concrete. She noted that it has been stated that with the downzoning the price of property will rise, but the proposed downzoning will actually achieve the opposite and cited two recently built condos that each sold for $1 million. People are being driven out of Cambridge because of the price of property. These properties are losing green space and open space. She spoke about a City analysis map of density that is in Riverside. She stated that residents in Riverside do not want to lose anymore green space. The intent of this petition is not to prevent homeowners to build on their property, but to protect what is currently in Riverside and not allow all the open space to be infilled with structures.

David Cohan, 37 Kinnaird Street, stated that in 2003 there was a Riverside Neighborhood Study by Community Development in which there are sub-areas that have their own character and scale and residents want to keep this in tack. These sub-areas are being eroded with multiple structures being built on relatively tight lots. The neighborhood residential core is basically the petition area.

Other petition issues are the relatively high water table, drainage concerns, and heavy traffic and on-street parking. Existing structures in the neighborhood are being eroded. An update was done on the Riverside Study in 2011. The traffic issues still exist. He stated that Putnam Avenue is still a dangerous place to ride a bike. He commented on the petition memo from Community Development. He stated that the GIS maps are useful for visualization. He stated that the memo contains information on potential additional dwelling units. The potential loss of dwelling units is only 26 in the petition area. Most of the parcels in the petition area exceed current FAR and the downzoning will have no effect; this is not logical to him. The intent is to preserve the open spaces where properties are below the allowed FAR. The Riverside core is at or below FAR.

Mr. Cohan further noted that the Riverside neighborhood is very similar, if not identical, to the Cambridgeport neighborhood, which is zoned C – exactly what the petition is seeking. He stated the petition’s negative effects are relatively small but the positive impacts going forward are significant. He summarized the positive points of the petition.

Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Planner, CDD, stated this petition is an established residential areas in Cambridge. He stated CDD starts by looking at the history of planning and going back to the Growth Policy in 1993 and the neighborhood studies (ATTACHMENT B). He stated that the prominent theme in planning for established residential neighborhoods is to have zoning that maintains a prevailing scale of development by taking areas that are already built out and create zoning regulations that preserve the prevailing type of development. The complication when applying this approach in practice is that the zoning districts are meant to be uniform. The zoning regulations draw a line and establish the maximum height, density and scale of development while the neighborhood is more variable.

Mr. Roberts continued that most of the neighborhood was built before zoning was in place and the zoning challenge is where to draw the district lines and have them uniform. He stated that when reviewing such a petition specifically highlighting height, land use, density and FAR the City must analyze how the existing neighborhood buildings/lots measure up compared to what the petition proposes. Typically in neighborhoods, zoning requirements are drawn in the approximant middle: one-half of the residential parcels in the district are built denser than what the current zoning allows and half are built less that what is allowed. If the proposed petition were adopted, it would result in a larger amount of over built parcels compared to the new zoning and a smaller amount of remaining properties would have potential to build out additional FAR and more density.

The useable open space is a requirement, which was identified by the petitioners and most of the parcels are conforming to the open space. Another piece of analysis looked at adding additional dwelling units to district lots. Under current zoning a small number of parcels within this zoning petition area, 50 one to three family house lots, have the potential to add an additional unit. Under the proposed zoning 20 properties in the district that have the ability to add units.

The Planning Board’s hearing was held on May 24, 2016 and Mr. Roberts summarized their discussion. He stated that the Board was concerned about the number of lots that would be nonconforming by this petition. He stated that this type of zoning proposal was not the most effective way to promote good open space, attractive development character that is fitting the neighborhood, and at the same time allow modifications to properties and prevent property owners from doing something that would be impactful or out of character. The Planning Board suggested that the petitioners explore the Neighborhood Conservation District model of development review, which is separate of the zoning but does create a review process to ensure alterations be in context with the neighborhood. This is a successful model and recommended that this is an approach that the neighbors and City Council may consider.

At this time Councillor Carlone opened the hearing to the committee for question and needed clarification.

Vice Mayor McGovern spoke of the percentage of structures that will be non-conforming and that there will always be non-conforming units in Cambridge depending on changes in zoning. The majority of properties are over FAR and these units cannot be built upon this property. He asked can a unit be knocked down and two new units built. Mr. Roberts responded in the affirmative. The Vice Mayor continued that the neighborhood issue is building the second building in back yards but still allow residents to build an additional bedroom. He asked is there zoning language that could accomplish the neighborhood goal and allow needed residential additions. Mr. Roberts responded in the affirmative.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that building one structure is different than building two freestanding structures - not a single to a two family house. Mr. Roberts stated that zoning addresses how much can be built in the rear lots. He explained what is allowed in the other districts, where a Special Permit provision from the Planning Board was put into place to prevent building in the back of the lot. He stated that buildings are to be built in a specific way. Vice Mayor McGovern asked that in a Neighborhood Conservation District study what is this process and what will it accomplish. Mr. Roberts stated that it is a process that involves the Historical Commission and the City Council is involved in the process and the process is laid out in the Municipal Ordinance.

Councillor Carlone stated that a Conservation District is an alternative that exists in a number of neighborhoods and the District Committee oversees building character, positioning and massing. It does not preclude new units going in the backyards. He added that Mid-Cambridge leaders firmly believe that their Neighborhood Conservation District designation and the resulting committee review has not prevented new construction in neighborhood back yards.

Councillor Carlone asked about Residential-A and Residential-B Districts zoning changes in past years that lessened the possibility of overdevelopment. Councillor Carlone wanted to look for a modification of zoning that allows some of what the petitioners want and to preserve the neighborhood character. He stated that one-half of all the buildings in the City do not meet zoning. Mr. Roberts agreed and it is almost impossible to know what is non-conforming to zoning.

Councillor Carlone then spoke about the presented City’s Riverside analysis maps and noted the building coverage is similar to Cambridgeport, which was rezoned to Residential-C in the past. He stated that part of the solution may be trying to find a way to meet neighborhood desires and perhaps that may not be solved with just one district.

Councillor Carlone opened the meeting to public comment at 3:50pm.

Chris Marstall, 1 Jay Street Place, stated that he lives in small house; it is cramped and it is hard to see how a second child can fit into this house. He was hoping to add an extra room. He stated that under current C-1 zoning the FAR he would be able to go to 1200 square feet and add 200 square feet. He stated that going to C would bring the FAR down to 960 square feet to add 50 square feet. He is affected negatively by this petition. He requested that this not be approved in its current form. He does not want to see backyards filled with additional buildings. He would work to find a solution to prevent backyard infill but allows additions.

Leonard Lucas, 36 Kinnaird Street, supports the petition but believes it does not go far enough. The big flaw is the existing zoning because it provides “as of right” parameters that are out of character with the neighborhood -- this is where the problem is. He stated that if adding an addition bothers an abutter he should be able to say no or have some standing.

Harvey Bauman, 19 Bay Street, stated that when his grandson arrived he had to buy a second house on Green Street so that they would have favorable living conditions. He does not want to see the desirability to live in the city end because of developers building an additional dwelling in the back of a house. He stated that the character of the city has to be preserved. He stated that Townhouse Regulations loosened zoning restrictions and townhouses are being built across the City. Franklin and Green Streets are used as through streets when Massachusetts Avenue is blocked. He spoke about the historical nature of the neighborhood. It is time to put a brake of what is going on.

Aleta Cane, 32 Kinnaird Street, spoke in favor of the petition. All around this area there has been rezoning. This area has a bullseye on it. She spoke about the elimination of green space in the area, particularly on Green and Kinnaird Streets. If this area is not rezoned this will continue. She wanted the same consideration as what was given to another neighborhood. The kind of development on Jay, Howard and Kinnaird Streets is high end; it is not for families or middle case. It has changed the quality of people in the neighborhood. She suggested a downzoning that increases parity and increases the ability for people to move into the neighborhood who can buy a small house rather than a “cube” that the developers have built.

Gary Mello, 324 Franklin Street, questioned the quorum of this committee. He stated that he was surprised to see a letter regarding downzoning from the Planning Board. He is in the area of the petition. He stated that this does not stymie the City’s efforts or abilities to create affordable housing. Nothing that the City is doing is providing affordable housing. Councillor Carlone explained that some of the recent up-zonings provide a higher percentage of affordable housing.

Dawn Baxter, 76 Kinnaird Street, Riverside highlighted all the variety of housing in the neighborhood. This recent development to squeeze multiple structures onto small lots is excessive. She stated that the developers in Riverside are not providing affordable housing; it is all high-end housing. The neighborhood is losing green space, there are flooding issues and gardens and green space is being paved over. She is not opposed to allowing residents to put additions on their homes. She wanted to see a solution that limits development in Riverside.

Anwar Abdulla, 231 Western Avenue, stated that the zoning used to be C-3 and was changed to C-1. There is not much space to double up. He stated that he wanted residents to be able to expand. He stated that second generations of families are being pushed out of the City. He is not supporting the petition. He stated that he wanted to leave the area as it is.

Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street, stated that she is not part of the core, but is a part of Riverside. She stated that she was disturbed with the Planning Board hearing. The problems seen in Riverside relate to the City's long term policy on increasing tax base. She spoke about the closing of the Beacon Park Yards and its conversion to a Harvard campus that increased the demand for housing in Riverside, the Complete Streets treatment of Western Avenue, and changes to structures. She stated that what is happening directly results from the City’s intense focus for many decades on increasing the tax base. She stated that this area is prone to flooding. It was a wonderful mixed neighborhood and the point is you see what you see. The degree of non-conformity increasing from 60% to 80% would make these properties less desirable for development. You may not like what a neighbor is doing but it is their property statement made by a Planning Board member. She noted that there are constraints as to what can be done on private property. She does not understand the alarm this downzoning has raised. This is reasonable given the pressure on Riverside.

John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street, stated that the Planning Board recommendation was to explicitly initiate a study to create a Neighborhood Conservation District - this was a forceful recommendation because two Planning Board members are familiar with this process. The Neighborhood Conservation process takes over a year. The City Manager appoints a committee to do a study. He stated that input from the Historical Commission should be received if the committee is considering a positive recommendation on the petition.

Lauren Curry, 3 Concord Avenue, submitted a written statement where she requested that the committee not recommend adoption of the current proposal (ATTACHMENT C).

Joyce Singer, 524 Franklin Street, stated that she is in favor of the downzoning with modification to accommodate for families living in the neighborhood with special needs. This is not providing affordable housing for middle income.

Ms. Cane stated that she takes issue with the Planning Board recommendation. If a Neighborhood Conservation District study were adopted and it takes a year, do you know how many houses would be built during the year? Councillor Carlone explained that the Conservation District rules would be in effect while the study is ongoing. He stated that this would be the second Neighborhood Conservation District petition being considered by a neighborhood and was recently told that there is no additional capacity to begin the study nor staff to do the study. In response, Ms. Cane suggested that there be a time constraint if this were followed and while the study is going on that there be a moratorium to protect the neighborhood.

Councillor Carlone stated that the next step is to talk to the Historic Commission’s Charlie Sullivan about the process.

Ms. Wellons commented that the Planning Board suggested the Neighborhood Conservation District as an alternative to this zoning petition. Councillor Carlone stated that Mid-Cambridge has an active Neighborhood Conservation District and many leaders still worry about infill housing in back yard. This process does not prevent, but raises the quality of design. This petition should remain active. It was referred to by the Planning Board as a “sledgehammer” tool.

Mr. Lucas asked how the Neighborhood Conservation District relates to the zoning code. Councillor Carlone responded that this does not affect density. The NCD overview works within the parameters of zoning and historic structures are respected.

Public comment closed at 4:32pm.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that this process does not solve the issue that this petition is addressing. He is not an anti-density person. He stated that affordable housing is needed and there are places where it is appropriate and places where it is not. He stated the Ordinance Committee voted to downzone an area on Massachusetts Avenue and now people do not want to support downzoning in a residential neighborhood. He supports the goal of this petition. He stated that maybe the wording of this petition is not the best wording to reach the ultimate goal without unintended consequences. He would like to recommend that the petition be kept in committee and ask the Community Development Department to work with the petitioners to develop revised language that would prevent the filling in of back yards without preventing homeowners from adding additions to their current structures. He stated this would create the best outcome.

Councillor Devereux agreed that this should be left in committee. She is interested in the Planning Board recommendation for a Neighborhood Conservation District. She stated that this is a problem throughout the City in trying to preserve and to allow growth. It is hard to differentiate through zoning the two situations. She is sensitive to the issue, but stated that we have not heard from people who live in the so-called cubes built in the back yard; these voices are important too. She stated that the remark about zoning being a "sledgehammer” is that zoning is not a finite tool because of the uniformity. She did hear those who are in support of the petition fully state their concern about open space. She wanted the petition rewritten and create a new zoning designation that prioritizes open space in exchange for relaxing other dimensional rules. She spoke about the inconsistencies of the Ordinance Committee supporting a downzoning on Massachusetts Avenue which was two lots and the City Council followed the Planning Board’s recommendation. The right decision is to leave this in committee.

Councillor Carlone stated that the City’s goal is to preserve neighborhoods and that is what this comes down to. He agrees that the City Council needs to see possible alternatives. The outer rim of the proposed district seems to the denser than the inner ring. Maybe the petition should result in proposing two different districts. He questioned how Cambridgeport was downzoned from C-1 to C and wanted to know the history of this.

Councillor Carlone noted that open space permeability is critical since Riverside is very susceptible to flooding. He added that the City Council must have the opportunity to review the Planning Board’s written report when it is completed. He too is looking for a modified version to achieve the goals that is more flexible. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that the density is primarily happening in Kendall and Central Squares, and NorthPoint.

At this time Vice Mayor McGovern moved that the petition be kept in committee and made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to work with the petitioners of the Riverside zoning petition to develop revised language that would prevent backyard infill with second dwellings without preventing additions to current structures.

The motion carried on a voice vote of three members.

Councillor Carlone thanked all those present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 4:49pm on motion of Vice Mayor McGovern.

For the Committee,
Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chair

Committee Report #2
The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Thurs, June 2, 2016 beginning at 5:04pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to discuss and review a proposed list of community focus groups that the search firm will be conducting with various groups during the month of June and any other business that may properly come before the committee.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Maher, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Mazen; Vice Mayor McGovern; Councillor Toomey; Councillor Carlone; Arthur Goldberg, Deputy City Solicitor; Sheila Keady Rawson, Personnel Director; Lee Gianetti, Director of Communications and Community Relations; Sandra Albano, Executive Assistant to the City Council; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; and Robert Winters, 366 Broadway.

Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He announced that the hearing is being audio and video recorded. He stated that there are two documents being distributed. He stated that part of the process discussed previously was developing focus groups and since the last committee hearing the Search Firm has been selected. The firm, GovHR, USA is located in Chicago. The firm will be in Cambridge on Wednesday evening, June 9th and will work from June 9 - June 16, 2016 to facilitate the meetings with the focus groups. He read the items in (ATTACHMENT A). There are approximately 96 key constituency groups invited to participate in the focus groups and there will be 28 focus groups targeting key constituency groups across the city, including two general citywide session that will be scheduled in two different locations in the city. He stated that there will be a series of 90 minute drop-in sessions for City employees. There will be meetings with the City Council on a one-to-one basis. There will also be approximately sixteen one-on-one meetings with key staff that will be interspersed into the week long schedule. Councillor Maher stated that a communication plan is being developed to ensure timely and comprehensive notice of meeting times and locations for each participating constituency group, City Council and key staff. He added that this is an ambitious undertaking and the goal it is to get a wide-range of voices for the process. He spoke about having space available for the meetings.

Councillor Maher discussed (ATTACHMENT B), the search focus groups. He stated that the Chamber of Commerce will be hosting some of the meetings for the business associations, top ten employers and large scale residential and commercial property owners. He explained that the two general citywide meetings are broader and longer. A survey will be developed using "survey monkey" to further solicit feedback from City employees. He noted that there will be two drop-in sessions at 90 minutes each. The firm will conduct one-on-one interviews with the City Council and key city staff will have a one hour interview. He commented that the logistics is a challenge to schedule the meetings.

Councillor Carlone noted that small businesses are not represented and suggested that Cambridge Local First be added. Councillor Maher assured that they will be brought into the process.

Councillor Mazen spoke about streamlining the process and input into a digital process. He stated concern about some of the smallest businesses are not being captured. He stated that it is difficult and important that outreach be done. He further added that he would like to see participation from Code for America and those who have filed FOIA requests and religious and secular groups. He suggested HOLT Business School be included.

Councillor Toomey stated that the list is extensive. He stated that under the Human Services category that CEOC, Transition House and MAPS be included. Councillor Maher stated that they will be covered by the non-profit coalition. He will look into MAPS. Councillor Toomey noted that he wanted agencies that serve immigrant population included.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that the list is impressive and there will be much information that will be secured from the groups. He suggested adding in category #23 Shelter representatives, Homeless Charrette Task Force and the Y to Y. He further added that in category # 25 that Green Cambridge and Mothers Out Front should be added. He also suggested that the general citywide sessions should be held near public housing developments. He spoke about having a shuttle to make access and as convenience as possible. He is glad the search firm chosen will be able to handle the work cut out for them.

Councillor Kelley commented that the union management need to be part of the meeting especially for Public Safety Employees Councillor Maher stated that the purpose of the focus groups is for the City Council to hear from the broader constituencies. Some of the issues that will be discussed are what attributes are being looked at in the next City Manager. This information will help the search firm and in one week they will come back with a synopsis of what they saw and heard. The firm will develop the profile and the recruitment brochure. The report will outline the strengths and challenges of the community. Deputy City Manager Peterson stated that GovHR proposal is on the City Manager Search website now.

Councillor Maher stated that he hopes that this schedule will be fine-tuned and will be posted tomorrow and there will be notification of the hearings. He noted that the consultant wants to get the opinion of City Council as soon as possible.

Councillor Cheung stated that the focus groups schedule is aggressive and trying to reach out to as many people as possible. The work done is great.

Councillor Maher opened public comment at 5:33pm.

James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, asked for clarification how will people be notified, how will they be invited and are people who may not be in a particular category welcomed to attend issues such as a pedestrian issues. He questioned who has been identified as the sixteen key staff. The Cambridge Residence Alliance is a Central Square group and it may be good to allow neighborhood groups to participate in more than one group. He stated that the focus group created by the City Manager to discuss procedures by the Planning Board; this group should be included. He added that private schools should be included. He stated that the Cambridge Historical Society should be included. There are ten specific tenant councils in public housing and they should be included and anyone who is living in public housing to hear about the meetings. The tenant councils may want to be included by geography. Friends of Riverbend Park are not on the list and should be. He stated that seniors are not included and the meeting should be held at the senior center.

Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street, applauded the efforts and stated that you are setting yourself up for a trap. He spoke about the new City Manager taking care of the basic necessities and being overwhelmed by all of the philosophical points of view of all the different groups. The candidate for City Manager should have the ability in dealing with terrorist/security issues, traffic security, quality education, food supply, population and housing stability are the issues. He noted that the big challenge is technology putting people out of work. The creator brought forth humanity to remember all of the different possibilities. He urged keeping an eye on the basic necessity and not run ragged by all the philosophical differences.

Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, stated that this seems to have grown. He expressed his concern about the growth of 96 key constituency groups. He stated that after the decision is made after Sept 26, 2016 on the selection of a new City Manager then he could meet with all these groups. He stated that this is not necessarily productive. He noted that the focus is on groups. He stated that he wanted clarification on if he belongs to a group should he attend the meetings. He wanted the focus on individuals and that they be able to speak at the general citywide sessions.

Public Comment was closed at 5:44pm on a motion by Councillor Carlone.

Councillor Maher stated that in many cases people may fit into more than one category and in that case they would only need to attend one meeting. The general session is for someone who may not fit into the groups or someone who could not make a scheduled group meeting. The goal is to capture voices from as many voices as possible. If you want to be involved in the City Manager selection process you will get a broad input. He stated that expanding the drop in session can be done.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that the survey should be in different languages; this is important. Councillor Mazen stated that he is marginal on the side of the extensive list and it will provide information to the consultant firm. He added that being comprehensive will not have a downside.

Councillor Maher stated that the consultant will facilitate the meetings of the groups in different ways. The consultant needs to look at the size of the group and assess how the meetings will be conducted. Transportation, for example, is not to focus in on the transportation meeting; it is about finding the right person who wants to address issues about transportation. The leadership quality is what is being looked at.

Councillor Carlone questioned if the consultant will conduct meetings on weekends. Councillor Maher stated that one of the general meetings will be on Saturday morning as well as some of the one on one meetings with City Councillors and one will be in the evening.

Vice Mayor McGovern noted that some of the group meetings will be conducted at the same time. Councillor Maher stated that he hopes that members from different groups come together. Vice Mayor McGovern asked how quickly the invites will be sent. Councillor Maher stated that invitees/notifications would be sent out as soon as possible.

Councillor Maher thanked all present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 5:53pm on motion of Councillor Toomey.

For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair

Committee Report #3
The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Wed, May 18, 2016 beginning at 4:02pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the opioid crisis in Cambridge with representatives from the Human Services Department and the Cambridge Police Department as well as local providers.

Present at the hearing were Vice Mayor Marc McGovern, Chair; Councillor Jan Devereux; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Craig Kelley; Richard C. Rossi, City Manager; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Jeneen Mucci, Human Services Department; Claude Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer; Tali Schiller, Substance Abuse Prevention Coordinator, Cambridge Public Health Department; Mark J. Albanese, Director, Adult Outpatient Psychiatry & Addiction Service; Kristin Ward, Epidemiologist; Mary Cassesso, Cambridge Health Alliance; Chris Burke, Acting Commissioner; Christine Elow, Deputy Superintendent; Lieutenant Leonard DiPietro; Sergeant Louis Cherubino; Sergeant Fred Cabral; Sabrina Voegelin, LICSW; Cathy Pemberton, LICSW; Matt Nelson, Community and Strategic Partnerships Coordinator, Cambridge Police Department; Fire Chief Gerald Reardon; Christina Giacobbe, Director, Emergency Communications; School Committee Member Kathleen Kelly; Neil MacInnes-Barker, Director, Veterans’ Services Department; Dan Schwartz; and Deputy City Clerk Paula M. Crane.

Also present were Bill Mergandahl, Jamie Pianka, Pro Ambulance; Dennis Benzan; Beth Auterio; Gary Houle; Jason Yee; Sam Greenberg; Jackie King; Pat Medeiros; Leigh Hardy; Meghan Hynes; Karen Meehan; Mark McGovern, Director, Healthcare for the Homeless; and Hasson Rashid.

Vice Mayor McGovern convened the hearing and stated that last year, Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan held a roundtable hearing to discuss the opioid crisis. He stated that present at the Roundtable were local providers but many providers at the State level spoke on a broader level. He said that he thought that as follow-up, another discussion that focuses solely on Cambridge, would be beneficial. He stated that he wanted to identify providers in the City who are working to support those struggling with addiction as well as ways in which the City Council could be more supportive of those services. He stated that he does consulting work for courts in eastern Massachusetts and noted that in the last 3-5 years, approximately 90% of cases on which he consults are neglect cases due to opioid addiction. He stated that this is an issue that, unfortunately, deserves the title of crisis. Vice Mayor McGovern affirmed that addiction impacts not only the individual struggling with the addiction but to the families and children of that person as well. He stated that Mr. Claude Jacob from the Cambridge Public Health Department will give a presentation and talk about data and the work that is being done.

Claude Jacob gave an overview of the materials presents. (Attachment A) He thanked Vice Mayor McGovern for the opportunity to share this information. He stated that coast to coast communities are having different experiences. He stated that there will be an overview of resources and then he will ask partners to share information about their programs. Mr. Jacob stated that elder abuse is a ripple effect of this issue. He stated that he hears the same chorus of concern from many communities. He stated the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) included surveys as well as focus groups and by the time they got to priority areas, addiction was one of the major issues.

Tali Schiller stated that she works for the Massachusetts Opioid Abuse Prevention Collaborative (OPEN) which is a regional four city collaborative comprised of Cambridge, Everett, Somerville and Watertown. (Attachment B). This network addresses the issue of opioid use and abuse and fatal and non-fatal overdoses. She stated that OPEN is working with community members and organizations, local hospitals, fire, police and local health departments to raise awareness about prescription opioid safety and the prevention of fatal and non-fatal overdoses. She stated that alcohol and other substance abuse is ranked as the #3 social and economic issue in Cambridge according to the 2013 Community Health Assessment. She noted that fatal and non-fatal overdoses are increasing and most frequently happen among men, 45-60 year olds, and white non-Hispanic individuals. She stated that heroin addiction can happen to anyone and that 4 out of 5 times, an opioid addiction begins with legal or recreational use of prescription drugs that transitioned to heroin because of the change in availability or price. She stated that OPEN’s strategies to reduce addiction and overdose include: providing up-to-date information to the community about stigma, prevention, intervention and treatment; encouraging resident to safely store and dispose of medications when they are no longer needed; increasing awareness of prescription risks by creating a brochure explaining misuse for prescribers and pharmacists to explore with their patients; raising awareness about the Massachusetts Good Samaritan Law which provided limited immunity from arrest or prosecution for minor drug violations for people who call 911 when they witness and overdose; increasing the availability of overdose prevention and response training and he overdoes reversal drug Naloxone; and educating parents and their children about safe medication use, addiction risk factors, and the pathway from prescription opioid abuse to heroin addiction.

Kristin Ward, Epidemiologist, Cambridge Public Health Department, stated that the State DPH shows that fatal and non-fatal overdoses are increasing all over the state. She stated the first slide shows the confirmed opioid related deaths in the City of Cambridge. She stated that in geographic comparison the numbers are from 2012 and are likely higher across the board. She stated that Cambridge residents are dying in similar numbers to the numbers across the country but lower than the State numbers. She added that while these numbers are lower, they are increasing. She said that although there was a dip in 2006, the number has been steadily increasing. She stated that the data does not tell where specifically overdoses are happening in Cambridge. She stated that the DPH is developing their own data system to get timelier data and to obtain heat maps to find locations as to where they are occurring. She stated that as part of the CHIP, substance abuse is a priority area.

Tali Schiller stated that Massachusetts Municipal Association’s Municipal Opioid Addiction and Overdose Prevention Task Force offers ten opportunities and recommendations for local leadership; take the lead to increase public awareness and engagement; designate a municipal point person on substance abuse prevention; encourage intra-community, regional and statewide collaboration; develop a one-page resource guide for families and those seeking treatment or assistance; pilot innovative programs based on local needs; publicize the Good Samaritan Law; partner with schools to implement programs aimed at prevention; create prevention curriculum and education programs; provide first responders with Naloxone (Narcan) to prevent overdose deaths and create safe disposal sites in the community for the discarding of prescription drugs.

Ms. Semonoff stated that on one hand it is tragic that we are where we are today with all of the attention focused and the need for the attention. She stated that what used to happen is that because there were not so many deaths, there was not a lot of public acknowledgement yet there was plenty of suffering. She stated that the one silver lining in this crisis is that with the local attention as well as at the State and Federal level, there is the opportunity for a better coordinated response. She stated that more resources for treatment is necessary.

Vice Mayor McGovern asked what the City could be doing better.

Beth Auterio, Case Manager, CASPAR, stated that they are working on training staff on Narcan. Vice Mayor McGovern asked how CASPAR collaborates with agencies in the city. Ms. Auterio stated that CASPAR has a great relationship with the City and its partners.

Acting Police Commissioner Burke stated that well over one year ago, the Cambridge Police Department (CPD) started a program that focuses on individuals who were frequently committing crimes. He explained that CPD is working with the Court system and service providers to reach these individuals. He explained that through the leadership of Sergeant Cherubino, CPD meets with every overdose victim at the hospital. He noted that there have been times when an addict has woken up at the hospital to find the only people there are CPD detectives. He said that the addicts are becoming aware that the CPD cares about their wellbeing. He stated that as trust is built, addicts can share valuable information that was once expected of a confidential informant. He stated that CPD has identified hot spots in the City of Cambridge, Central Square being one. He pointed out that CPD has street outreach efforts underway. He stated the importance of having social workers at the CPD. He stated that the social workers communicate well with the police as well as the addict. He stated that unlike the Angel model in Gloucester which is a reactive program, the CPD effort has been proactive in going to the overdose victims and creating relationships to help and provide services and resource information.

Sabrina Voegelin, LICSW, CPD, stated that she started as social worker in the Focused Deterrent Unit. She stated that as she has worked with individuals in this capacity, most have substance abuse issues. She stated that given the opiate crisis, she sat with CPD staff and discussed what a program might look like wherein the City of Cambridge could take a more proactive approach as opposed to being reactive. She explained that the outcome of those conversations is that two detectives from the Special Investigation Unit follow-up with the addict and their family to connect with her for follow-up. She stated that she conducts risk and needs assessment. She stated that they determine what level of care they would like to participate it. She stated that the system is not perfect and unfortunately there are times that a detox bed cannot be found. She noted that the work is always done in a collaborative approach. She stated that the relationship between the detectives and the victims of overdose is very trusting. She stated that they also work with the Case Manager by calling halfway houses in order to continue the care.

Sergeant Cherubino stated that it became apparent for the need to think out of box for a plan of action. He stated that his unit is comprised of 9 detectives. He stated that they are developing a trust and networking with individuals affected. He stated that they have had 4-5 victims that have come back to the CPD and say that they can’t believe that the CPD is doing this type of work which reduces the stigma of drug addiction. He explained that detectives and social workers have gone over and above and have gone so far as taking overdose victims to various parts of the State for treatment. He noted that the word spreads throughout the community. He stated that Gloucester has a great program and Cambridge is tweaking things based on individual needs. He stated that the collaborations and partnerships have helped this initiative move forward. He added that he is excited about being part of the solution.

Sergeant Cabral explained that he leads the efforts of the outreach team. He stated that the strengths of the outreach team echo the sentiments of Sergeant Cherubino. He stated that by bringing in Pro Ambulance, medics, Healthcare for the Homeless, and CASPAR, they are able to reach more people. He stated that the real strength of the team is the different groups with different skill sets who work together to eliminate cracks. He stated that in June 2015, a stakeholders meeting was held to discuss issues. He noted that this first meeting was basically an introduction. He explained that the next meeting focused on opiates. He said that the Mount Auburn Hospital and the Cambridge Hospital participated in the meeting and explained that over 40 agencies have participated to date. He said that the CPD is constantly working on collaborative relationships with all providers.

Vice Mayor McGovern suggested that it would be helpful to have some sort of resource guide. He stated that it would be extremely beneficial to have as a tool to disseminate information.

Chief Reardon, Cambridge Fire Department (CFD) stated that between the CFD and Pro Ambulance, 50 response vehicles are dispatched during day and 35 response vehicles are dispatched at night. He stated that in terms of emergency outreach, Narcan alone is not a solution. He stated that the overdose numbers rise during the summer. He stated that this affects all demographics. He stated that it is important to that this is not something that stereotypes you. He explained that he spoke before the Office of National Drug Control Policy two weeks ago. He stated that Lynn in one of the highest in the region as well as Revere, Everett and Winthrop. He stated that they talked about the availability of Narcan. He stated that 95% of the current supply of opioids come into the country from Mexico. He stated that they went over a number of aspects but with outreach program and support, we are in far better shape than most communities. He said that he looks forward to working with other agencies on this serious epidemic.

Bill Mergandahl, CEO, PRO EMS, stated that they have program where they share data with the Cambridge Public Health Department and run a software application so that the Public Health Department gets real-time information. He noted that PRO EMS tracks Narcan administration as well as words in the narrative that triggers an e-mail which is the first of its kind in the country. He stated that recovery coaches were piloted. He noted that 8 people have been trained over the last five months and the pilot program targets some of the highest users of emergency services including opioids, alcohol and other substances. He stated that they have learned a tremendous amount. He noted that the idea of a recovery coach is someone that will work with a person and help shepherd them through the system. He stated that the system is broken due to the hurdles. He explained that the recovery coaches have had to go far beyond the normal recovery coach definition, doing things that do not fall in the definition of recovery coach. He stated that they are formalizing in the form of a new non-profit called Face It Together Cambridge. He stated that this will be the first Face It Together program in Cambridge and explained that they will receive training in order to better track and use the data to benchmark important information. He stated that this program should up and running within the next 2 weeks. He added that it has been a whirlwind for the last six months and many hard lessons were learned but he feels that they have made a dent in this epidemic.

Vice Mayor McGovern asked what specifically Face It Together Cambridge will provide. Mr. Mergandahl responded that right now it will follow the current model until further developed. He noted the importance of accessing data and use the software to make better records. He stated that they have gone way beyond the normal recovery coach model.

Meghan Hynes, AIDS Action Committee, noted that her organization has over 1000 clients yearly. She stated that 200,000 needles were given out last year. She stated that they offer free testing and counseling. She noted that they conduct Narcan training and distribution and have just launched a street outreach team. She said that they conduct case management and health education. She stated that when thinking about what can be done, what is being done in Cambridge is very innovative. She stated that there is an immense collaborative effort with all of the service providers. She stated that some work can be done to hold each other accountable to look at the implications of our intentions. She stated that her organization has relationships with people that receive services. She stated that all first responders need to carry Narcan. She said that a better understanding of the Good Samaritan Law would be beneficial. She noted the need for greater communication and better streams of communication for what is working and what is not.

Gary Houle, North Charles Foundation, stated that there is rumor going around that the use of Narcan is exciting to addicts. He stated that this is not true, it is a rescue tool. He stated that after an overdose, it is all about follow-up. He stated that many addicts are ambivalent about whether they want to be in treatment or not. He stated that it is important to get overdose victims into a medically-assisted treatment program. He stated that it is important to get counseling with Suboxone. He stated that we must advocate that this is a lifestyle change. He stated that 75% of people they see are working adults. He stated that unfortunately, in this area there is a dearth of detox beds. He noted that it is very difficult to get a detox bed. He stated that the wait for a detox bed is 3-7 days. He noted that follow-up is critical. He stated that they advocate long-term psycho-social care and follow-up.

Karen Meehan, Salvation Army, stated the turnabout that the CPD has made in the City is tremendous. She stated that the CFD treats people with the utmost respect. She stated that the City is doing a great job as a team although there is a lot of work to do. She stated that we must educate people. She stated that the Salvation Army is getting training on Narcan. She stated that with collaboration, much important work can be done.

Mark Albanese, Director of Adult Outpatient Psychiatry and Addictions, CHA, stated that it is inspiring to listen to all the work that is being done in Cambridge. He stated that the biggest innovation that they have made is to establish office space for opioid treatment. He noted that they have gone from no office-based treatment in 2002 to an extensive network throughout the CHA. He stated that this is an integrated, multi-disciplinary and multi-department approach. He stated that as it relates to resources, they have conducted training for people who already work at CHA to become experts in treating opioid patients. He stated that this would be a lot easier if we were only dealing with opioids but other things come into play such as homelessness, joblessness, medical co-morbidities, etc. He stated that this work is being done without a lot of additional resources. He stated that others have mentioned the “wish list” of areas in which to get better. He explained that adolescence and transitional age is a more difficult population to engage and treat in treatment and is susceptible to overdose and dying. He stated that data is beneath the surface but is so crucial. He stated that the need to get people to the next level of care by making it easier. He stated that the system has let a lot of people down.

Mark McGovern, Director, Healthcare for the Homeless, stated that he has seen the number of useable substances continue to increase. He stated that it is rare to see anyone who uses just one substance. He stated that there is a new abusable substance called the Poor Man’s Methadone which is Imodium diarrheal. He stated that the emergency response has improved dramatically but detox has not improved. He stated that you could easily spend one day working to get someone into detox. He stated that it would be helpful for the city to have a sobering center. He noted that San Francisco has a great sober center. He explained that this is an alternative to an ER visit for someone who is intoxicated only. The person could come to the sobering center where there is Registered Nurse who can administer oral hydration. He explained that when the person is able to intake food, they do so and when they become sober they can either leave or if they want treatment there are people available to take the next step.

Councillor Devereux stated that her husband works in the field and she hears stories about this crisis every night. She asked about first responders and access to Narcan. She asked what is holding the City back. She asked about safe disposal sites in the community for discarding of prescription drugs. Acting Police Commissioner Burke responded that the City is still in discussions with the union and all parties must agree to terms. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that his hope is that this issue will be resolved soon.

Mr. Rossi stated that the Cambridge Public Health Department would be the municipal point person on substance abuse prevention.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that we have so many amazing programs and people doing amazing things that sometimes it can feel too disjointed. He stated that sometimes you need to be able to say to someone “Go see x”. He stated the need to marry these things so that collaboration is taking place while needs are being met.

Vice Mayor McGovern asked that status of prescription drop off locations. Mr. Jacob responded that they have talked to CPD and are looking at requirements for the extra drop off kiosks and a response will be forthcoming. He stated that it must be located in a secure area and added that they are encouraging people to utilize the mailers.

As the result of a rumor that is circulating, Vice Mayor McGovern asked Auterio if it is true that there is a van that comes in from other communities and drops off heroin users at Carl Barron Plaza. Ms. Auterio responded that she has no knowledge of this occurring. She noted that there is a street outreach program that helps people get to 240 Albany Street, but not others from other cities.

Kathy Pemberton, LICSW, stated that she has been at CPD for the past year. She stated that in all of her work she is deeply interested in thinking about a sobering center. She stated that people call it different things in different cities. She stated that this is one project that she feels is very important for the city.

Mark Albanese stated that he does not know of any municipalities that have detox beds or a partnership to establish those. He stated that he would not mind Cambridge being the first one. He stated that they have had active discussions for over a year about reestablishing detox beds and step down beds which they had until 2009. He stated that it is the right thing to do and it saves money. He stated that sobering centers don’t utilize more expensive services. He stated that there is a cost savings attributable to getting people services such as these.

Mr. Rossi stated that this is wonderful idea but it is difficult to get started. He stated that the intelligent thing to do is to put together a group to study the issue and come back with an understanding of what this means. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that it is such a regional issue but these are things that must be looked at.

Meghan Hynes stated that the idea of sobering center is a wonderful idea. She stated that a new sobering center opened in Boston. She added that her drop-in center welcomes all people and is monitored. She noted that referrals, wound care, and health education are some other things that are done. She stated that although her program does not have R.N.’s, it has been happening in the city for some time.

Neal MacInnes Barker stated that the Veterans’ Service Department also has active and recovering users who visit his office. He stated that they have state and federal challenges as well. He stated that they are collaborating with veterans who are impacted. He stated that data sharing is very important. He stated that his department is interested in strengthening infrastructure.

Mary Cassessa, CHA, stated that one innovation that she heard of recently was that a lot of the counties are starting to convert some jail units for detox purposes. She noted that Suffolk County has excess capacity that is being considered.

Hasson Rashid stated that the federal and state government have stated that homelessness is a public health issue. He said that so much money is being poured into elimination of drug use. He stated that you need bold innovations to deal with this crisis. He stated that homelessness is the main issue. He said that drug overdoses are byproducts of the lack of housing. He stated that obsolete measures and approaches are being used to deal with these issues.

Vice Mayor McGovern thanked all present for their participation and stated that there is a vigil this evening for those who have passed away from addiction. He invited the hearing participants to attend this vigil.

Vice Mayor McGovern thanked all those present for their participation.

The hearing adjourned at 6:00pm on the motion of Councillor Devereux.

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Marc C. McGovern, Chair